U.S. women to face Canada in two-game series

he U.S. women's soccer national team will play Canada in Rochester, N.Y., and Charleston, S.C., in July.

The Americans, who beat the Canadians 2-1 in the quarterfinals on the way to the 2008 Olympic gold medal, will be the host for games July 19 at Rochester Rhinos Stadium and on July 22 at Blackbaud Stadium in Charleston.

Familiar foes, the Americans and Canadians have met 44 times, the most matches the United States has played against any nation.

"Although we have played Canada many times, I am very happy we're facing them again," U.S. coach Pia Sundhage said. "Their new head coach, Carolina Morace, will likely introduce a different playing style. Players who are trying new things for their new coach could be very unpredictable, and we need to respond to that with our tactical skills.

"It has always been challenging to play our neighbor and I'm looking forward to dealing with their new style which will probably be a little influenced by Italian soccer. I believe it's also important for us to get to know the new Canada because we will surely play them in World Cup qualification."